By Charles Switzer
3:37am PDT, Apr 10, 2025
Hegseth Vows to Push Back Against Chinese Influence in Panama Canal
During a visit to the Panama Canal on Tuesday, April 8, Defense Secretary
Pete Hegseth delivered a firm message on the
Donald Trump administration's intent to counter China's growing presence in the region, the
New York Post reported.
Framed by the globally vital shipping route, Hegseth stated in a speech, "China did not build this canal. China does not operate this canal and China will not weaponize this canal." He emphasized that the U.S. and Panama will work together to keep the canal free and accessible to all nations.
"Together with Panama in the lead, we will keep the canal secure and available for all nations," Hegseth declared, followed by a stronger assertion: "Together, we will take back the canal from China's influence," he said.
Here are four key takeaways from Hegseth's visit to Panama.
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Trump Administration Flags National Security Concerns
President Donald Trump has raised alarms about Chinese-owned companies that manage port facilities and related infrastructure at both ends of the Panama Canal.
These developments have prompted his administration to regard the issue as a
national security priority. The canal handles over 40 percent of U.S. container traffic — worth around $270 billion annually.
Speaking to both Panamanian forces and U.S. military personnel, Pete Hegseth further remarked, "In reality or in perception, the communist Chinese have had designs on more control of this canal, and to that we say: 'Not on our watch.'"
He reaffirmed U.S. commitment to deepening cooperation with Panama: "We will grow our partnership even more."
China Pushes Back with Sharp Rebuttal
China swiftly responded to the remarks through its embassy in Panama, issuing a strongly worded statement questioning the motives behind Pete Hegseth's visit: "Who represents the real threat to the Canal? People will make their own judgment," the embassy said.
It also accused the U.S. of employing coercive tactics, calling it "blackmail" and insisting that Panama's trade relations are "a sovereign decision of Panama… and something the U.S. doesn't have the right to interfere in."
The statement continued, "The U.S. has carried out a sensationalistic campaign about the 'theoretical Chinese threat' in an attempt to sabotage Chinese-Panamanian cooperation, which is all just rooted in the United States' own geopolitical interests."
The embassy also claimed that "China has never been involved in the management and operation of the Panama Canal, nor has it ever interfered in the affairs of the canal."
Strengthening Bilateral Security Ties
Following the day's meetings, Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino and Secretary Pete Hegseth released a joint statement highlighting the strengthening of U.S.-Panama relations.
"They reaffirmed the historic security relationship between the Republic of Panama and the United States of America," the statement read. It went on to acknowledge Panama's departure from China's Belt and Road Initiative and the country's enforcement efforts to curb illegal immigration through the Darien Gap.
Additionally, the U.S. has contributed $230 million in security aid to Panama over the last five years, part of what both leaders described as a shared commitment to "address shared security challenges."
Plans for Future Collaboration
The joint statement also outlined several future initiatives including plans to develop "a mechanism to compensate for the payment of tolls and charge" for vessels transiting the canal. Both nations will also work together to "enhance and strengthen Panama's security capabilities," with specific mention of joint military exercises to be conducted in Panama's jungle regions.
This renewed partnership reportedly reflects the Donald Trump administration's
broader strategy of curbing China's strategic foothold in critical global infrastructure, while reinforcing America's influence in the Western Hemisphere through direct engagement and military collaboration.
